County program helps residents find their ‘Plus’
Published on December 20, 2024
Some come for the food. Others for the socialization.
No matter the reason for attending LunchPlus Clubs, many agree that the experience can be life-changing.
LunchPlus Clubs promote, maintain and improve the health and well-being of older adults. The program helps reduce isolation through social interaction, education and supportive services, while also providing a nutritionally balanced meal.
“LunchPlus saved my life,” says Concord participant Mildred Stevens, who started attending the program following the death of her brother last January.
“I was just sitting in my room, watching TV and thinking about him…just kind of withering away,” she says. “I eventually realized that I needed to be around people and not be alone all the time.”
Over time, Stevens developed friendships and established new support systems to lean on during difficult times.
“We are a family here … we love and care for each other,” she adds. “It's just a great program and I'm really grateful.”
Jessie Pittman started attending the same Concord location with his wife. Pittman’s wife had been diagnosed with early-stage Alzheimer’s, and a friend suggested LunchPlus after investigating opportunities for social activities.
“It’s such a blessing to be able to come and enjoy the fellowship, camaraderie and a nice meal,” Pittman says.
Six locations are available throughout Cabarrus: Concord, Midland, Harrisburg, Kannapolis, Mt. Pleasant and Northwest Cabarrus.
Each location offers a variety of fun activities that engage program participants socially, physically and mentally including games, arts and crafts, holiday parties, exercise classes, education programs and health screenings.
In recent weeks, the LunchPlus Clubs played Elvis bingo (Midland), held an apple harvest event (Mt. Pleasant), staged a sock hop (Concord), decorated a Christmas tree and made ornaments (Northwest), took pictures with Santa (Harrisburg) and held an ugly Christmas sweater contest (Kannapolis).
“It’s important for seniors to get out and be engaged to help combat social isolation and depression,” says Nutrition Program Supervisor Cindy Hall. “The LunchPlus Clubs offer seniors a place to come and be a part pf something fun and meaningful.”
LunchPlus Clubs are open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. The program is offered to Cabarrus County residents ages 60 and above.
You can follow all the activities by following the program on Facebook: @CabCoLPC and visiting cabarruscounty.us/LunchPlusClub.
Transportation is available through Cabarrus County Transportation Services, depending on location and availability. Sites offering transportation include Concord, Harrisburg, Kannapolis and Mt. Pleasant.
For more information, call 704-920-1400 extension 7.
To watch more about how the LunchPlus Clubs have impacted residents across the county, visit youtube.com/CabarrusCounty.